When in Ireland....Ballymaloe!

Yes, I am continuing my short little tribute to my mother's homeland! I wanted to find a beautiful Manor home that I felt embodied the character and charm of Ireland, and I think I found it!!! This is the lovely Ballymaloe House in Shangarry, County Cork. It is approximately 40 minutes from the main city of County Cork, and 2.5 hours from Dublin. It has an interesting history dating back to the 1450's, but was updated from the 1960's to 2008, and was able to retain much of the integrity of the historic building. The amenities boast a cooking school 5 minutes away, a pool(though I never remember it being that warm, to jump in one), restaurant, art gallery, wine cellar, wedding facility, nearby golf and horseback riding. I think you will love the photo's from this great little find, and it may prompt you to start planning a trip to good old Ireland!